MPN Cloud Performance Competencies: how to get started

The cloud is integrated into the Microsoft Partner Network. Partners with active practices around Microsoft Office 365 or Microsoft Azure may attain one of three cloud performance competencies. By partnering with Microsoft, you can make money selling industry-leading cloud solutions, and your success will not only help your business grow, it will unlock additional support, enablement, and incentives with the Microsoft Partner Network.

Through June 30, 2015, the Silver competency fee for these cloud performance competencies is waived, and you can enter at the Gold level at a reduced fee.

New Cloud Customer Relationship Management Competency Coming March 2This Cloud Performance competency joins those for Office 365 and Azure, and comes with benefits for partners demonstrating success in the cloud, like Signature Cloud Support, priority placement in the Microsoft Pinpoint marketplace, and initial eligibility qualification for CRM incentives (Sales + Management). Earn the silver competency at no cost and gold level competency at a discounted rate.

In this post, I’ve provided information about each of the cloud performance competencies, with links to details about benefits, requirements, training, how to enroll, and additional resources. Benefits and requirements are based on each competency’s portal page.

Partners with existing cloud practices

Partners getting started in the cloud

If your Microsoft practice includes Office 365 or Azure, you may already be on your way to meeting the requirements to attain a cloud competency.

Sign in to your company’s Cloud Performance Competency Status page to get a status overview and find resource recommendations. Your MPN Program Administrator can then check your status in the Partner Membership Center for additional details.

For companies just starting their business’ transformation to the cloud, we can help you create, fine-tune, and implement your plan.

If your company has a Microsoft Action Pack Subscription or a competency, you have access to internal use benefits for Office 365 and Azure. Activating and deploying these licenses in your business can help you increase your success in the cloud and meet the performance requirements for these competencies.